Hermann Park was so nice. I ran the Marvin Taylor Trail. The trees are beautiful and offer so much shade. The trail is already "paved" so you know exactly where to go and where to follow. The trail follows around the golfing area. There were many people out so I felt safe. It is also very family friendly. There were many families around. There is also public parking right by the trail with plenty of parking spots. read more

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Come here for outdoor walks during the day time! Pretty easy to find parking near the conservancy or the driving range. And such a great trail. Very scenic and safe during the day times read more

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It's actually called the Marvin Taylor Trail. It's a 2 mile loop for joggers, walkers, runners and bikes. There are cut throughs where you can make it a little over a mile loop. Parking: The trail is located in the museum, Zoo, Miller Outdoor theater area. During certain times parking might be a hassle. But if you go in the early mornings or evenings you have a better chance of free parking. This is one of my favorite exercising trails inside the city. I say this for several reasons. 1) Free parking if you get there at the right times. If not there is paid street parking. 2) Lots of shade with beautiful trees. 3) Located around the golf course with lots of greenery. 4) Nature at its best. You'll find loads of ducks and ducklings, squirrels, nutria, birds and more. If you're feeding the ducks please don't feed them bread. Cracked corn, bird seed, and peas add best. 5) Happy people exercising who will greet you with a "good morning" or "good evening" and such. 6) Pet friendly, bring the dog - if it's on a leash. 7) Restrooms along the trail. 8) Exercise equipment located not far from the main parking lot. 9) Sometimes there are food trucks. 10) City bikes are on site to rent. 11) Just go! read more

Hermann Park Trail - Ducks! - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

great park and trail around. must visit in houston! lots of ducks and some good variety in scenery. read more

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Part of the Brays bayou trail system; this is probably the nicest looking portion of that trail. There's two trails on each side of the bayou and portions that connect to Herman Park/ Museum District area. This portion is usually very clean and busier with people and pretty safe. read more

Great for a run or ride after work Family time on a sunday to walk Plus they have refreshment stands read more

Hermann Park Trail - Riding bikes - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

Another great park around Houston. Great for hanging out with friends, exercising, or just want to come for some fresh air. Also a good place to stop by if you're in town. There is also the Houston zoo and the museum within walking distance. There is a huge water fountain but you water can splash on you. This park is quite big and it's great for either walking or running. This park is also good for formal pictures. Great scenery and nice atmosphere. read more

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This used to be a pretty scary part of town, but when I visited there to see the new bridge, I saw families and young looking professionals using the trails even after dark. There is very little shelter unless you go to Hermann Park proper, but at least in the cool months of the year that won't be a problem. In the summer, you will roast. They do have a bathroom too which is probably where the homeless go to shower and such, but at least it's there and it's not horrible. I saw a group of possible homeless or possibly hippies starting a sizable fire in a fire pit and drink tea and stuff while laying back in fancy middle eastern looking pillows. It WAS Christmas eve too so maybe they were reenactors. I expect that sort of weirdness from Menil Park. If I lived in the area I'd be able to give you a more solid vote of confidence in the neighborhood but for now, maybe carry pepper spray with you just to be sure, but at least the afternoon/evening I was there taking pictures of the bridge, everybody behaved. read more

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This is a beautiful trail. It is wide, well maintained and shaded for most of the area. If you're running the outside circuit, you get to see the zoo, golf course and museums. If you want to step up your workout, you can run the hill by the amphitheater. When I ran it on a Sunday morning, there were plenty of people out and about so I didn't feel unsafe. However, if you park in the lot by Hermann Drive and Crawford Street, you need to be careful. My friend had her car broken into at 9:30 on a Sunday morning. There were plenty of people around and numerous cars in the free parking lot there so even though it looks nice, you should take care for your personal safety as there are obviously some shady characters roaming around. That's the only reason I can't give it five stars. read more

Hermann Park Trail - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

This has been my go to place for my daily COVID-19 outting... shaded paths that make for a better run/walk during the Texas sun... Not so crowed early in the day compared to after work hours... Maka sure to wear a pair of tennis shoes you don't mind getting dirty.... Two mile trail around the park... Beautiful views along the trails... read more

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Beautiful trail to bike, run, or walk! Cons: Sidewalk around certain parts of the trail is in horrible shape - popped my bike tire yesterday. Not fun. Gets way too crowded with big groups of people and groups with kids at certain times of the day on the weekend. HINT: Do not try to ride your bike on the trail in the afternoon on Saturday or Sunday when the weather is vaguely pleasant - it will be too crowded. I got yelled at yesterday by a woman who thought that I should walk my bike rather than riding it, because apparently it's not a trail for biking, but for walking kids. Grrrr. Still annoyed. If you're serious about running or biking, definitely go before or after the crowds. read more

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I've never been a big fan of H-Town, but after discovering the Museum District and this trail, I have discovered even Houston has its gems! I did not walk the entire thing as it appears to be extensive, but because of a serendipitous parking situation, I parked about 3/4mi from the HMNS without realizing I was that far and ended up walking the park trail to get there from my parking area. I ended up passing sculptures, a little water walkway, a japanese garden, the Miller Theater, and just some nice stretches of greenery. It was an above average heat index day, but with the slight breeze, the trek to the HMNS was enjoyable! I will definitely "get lost" again the next time I am in downtown Houston to explore more of the Trail and hopefully make some more fantastic discoveries hidden in this concrete jungle of a city! read more

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I love this trail for many reasons: 1. It's extremely close to my residence. 2. Free parking in a lot on almeda and by the golf club house (probably other places too but I just haven't ventured to find them) 3. You can run on pavement around the bayou or on gravel if you do the paths along the golf course and next to the zoo and natural science museum. 4. There isn't just 1 big loop: there are plenty of little paths that you can go on, and that helps me from getting bored. 5. In the evenings, you're bound to see lots of bunnies running around. Cute baby animals make exercise more fun! 6. The wildflowers and bluebonnets along the bayou in the spring are INSANE. It's so beautiful!!! Hats off to the Hermann park conservancy for keeping it so nice! I'm enjoying watching the new baby trees they planted grow up. read more

Compared to Memorial Park, it is never overly crowded, which is perfect for my two little pups. The last time I went, it was the evening time around 7PM - there were a variety of people out. There were joggers, walkers, a few bike riders and plenty of dog walkers. It was calm for my two little pups where we could leisurely enjoy our walk without having to worry about getting out of everyones way. The trail width is perfect if there are multiple dogs passing each other. Enough to pull your dog away from other dogs if you ever feel the need to without having to step off the trail - something that Rice trail lacks. The trail is also nicely shaded (except for when you're getting onto Hermann Park Dr. from Cambridge street - there are no trees there) so I never have to worry about keeping my pups in the sun too long. Along the way you'll run into the new centennial gardens, a golf course, the zoo, and a little workout area they call the "conditioning station". For parking, there are plenty of street parking and if you're going in the evening time, you shouldn't have trouble looking for a parking spot. If you're coming during zoo hours, I usually am able to find a parking spot along Hermann Dr. The Marvin Taylor trail is about a 2-mile trail. There is also a nice little shortcut once you've hit the little bridge area that will take you back to the parking lots near the zoo. read more

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Whenever I have a friend visit Houston, this is the very first place I take them. Hermann Park is one of the most impressive spots in town and so utterly beautiful. The park includes a large reflection pool and mock Washington monument, a big Japanese rose garden, a huge outdoor theater, great hills to roll down, and a beautiful walk way to the Houston zoo. Whether you're going here with family, friends, a date, or as a tourist- this is a Houston must see. read more

Hermann Park Trail - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

This trail is also known as the Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail. (I've heard you might sometimes see him jogging early in the A.M.). You can park near the golf course entrance on MacGregor and Almeda - usually pretty open. Trail is gorgeous - packed with trees and green grass. I kind of don't like Rice trail's traffic surrounding which is why I tried this trail - although it only has one side by traffic on Cambridge - it's still pretty "one with nature". Minus points for not having fountains sprawled throughout the trail. Added bonus : since the trail is almost 2 miles, if you continue on to Fannin and a right on Hermann Park, you'll get about 2. 95 miles like Rice. Will be going here again soon! read more

Hermann Park Trail - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

This is my go-to running trail around the Hermann Park Golf Course. There is always parking (even with golfers), plenty of shade throughout the trial, and enough people along the trail to feel safe but not over crowded. It's pet-friendly, but unfortunately there are no dog bags along the route so bring your own to clean up after your pet. The trail is about 2 miles around the golf course, so it's an easy loop (or 2) to get your workout in. Highly recommend! read more

This is a very short trail, but can be extended if you don't mind running on the "sidewalks" around the Zoo or even the Miller Outdoor Theatre. You could even just cross over to the Rice U Trail and run that too. My favorite part? Nature everywhere! Greenery, birds and sometimes an awesome breeze to make your run enjoyable. It's not as busy as memorial, but there are usually plenty of people around. I have never been there after dark, but I would think it should have good lighting. I still prefer Memorial, nothing like that three mile loop! read more

There are a couple different trails that you can take which allows you to customize to your needs. The most outer loop in 3 miles, Marvin trail around the gulf course is 2 miles, and if you cut through the gulf course then it's 1.2ish miles. It's also convenient that there is a tunnel that you can take which will lead you from the Herman park running trail to the trail next to the Bayou so you don't need to cross a busy intersection. It is a good trail for beginners since there is no changes in elevation. However, if you want changes in elevation you can use the tunnel to use the trail that's next to the bayou. Other amenities is that there is ample parking, restrooms near by, and there are plenty of trees for shade. However, an issue with this path is that it is gravel so it can get muddy. Also, currently the lights in the lamps aren't working so be careful not to run to late at night since part of the path won't be lit. read more

I love this park. I come here almost daily sometime. So many places to explore. This place rock.

What, I say, what is the best cure for homesickness??? The homeopathic, all-natural, organic, home-brewed dose of Hermann Park will fix ya every time! Whether heading out for a brisk walk (ME) or a nice run (YOU), one can really enjoy a truly scenic route. Fresh air is always the best. I saw a lot of couples spending some QT here with picnic baskets, holding hands.... awwwwww.... The energized senior citizens will put the young folks here to shame, because they are definitely taking advantage of what the city has to offer. I've always been proud of this beautiful park, and I would recommend the trail for a few stolen moments of R&R. Wildlife in abundance, flora and fauna, fountains, statues, beautiful people frolicking about.... this is the life. Cue music: "Juicy" by Notorious B.I.G. ..... "and if you don't know, now you know..." read more

Hermann Park Trail - Splish splash... - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Lol, ok so maybe I was a bit critical of this trail back when I first reviewed it. Now that it's summer and the sun is out for a million hours each day, there's plenty of daylight for an early morning run or even a late evening one. I still wouldn't run this loop after sundown since I'm pretty sure the trail is closed AND there's tons of sketchy people around the Fannin/MacGregor corner of the park. That being said, the trail is pretty nice, it's grown on me, it probably has to do with the fact that I'm not embarrassingly out of shape like I used to be when I ran this trail and had to stop every 500 feet to walk (ok that's an exaggeration), but you get the idea. I like the fact that you can run along the Bayou and catch some hills if you want, or even run up the hills on Miller Outdoor Theater. It's fun to people watch too while you're hitting the trails since they're are always people playing with their dogs, throwing a frisbee, or chilling with some yoga in the park. Maybe I'm blind when I run this trail, but I still have no idea where the water fountains are so that's a bit of a bust now that it's getting hot again. read more

Hermann Park Trail - Just a classy autumn sunset - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

We used this place as a photo shoot lol very nice park with a little lake. The Japanese garden was cute, it was small but had nice koi. The park itself was very clean and well kept. Not sure if there were any public restrooms. Saw a lot of families. Stop by and take a look. read more

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Great walking park! Many different elements including golf, walking/running paths, Houston zoo and monuments/statues. I walked around with my headphone jammin' for about an hour and loved everywhere I turned. It was beautiful and very relaxing. Can imagine this place gets VERY busy in the summer, however on this 60 degree February day it was just perfect. Would recommend to anyone interested in a tranquil walk. read more

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This is probably one of the nicest most scenic park trails in Houston next to Buffalo Bayou park trails. It is well connected to other trails, sidewalks, and bikeways around TMC and the museum district. It's great for bike rides, jogs, or casual strolling through. Pretty spacious and variety of trails being gravel, concrete, dirt, and pine needles trails. read more

As a cheenager (child + teenager), I avoided going outside as if there were (pick one): (1) flying bands of harpies ready to carry me away, (2) ravenous wolves, or (3) the Plague ready to infect me. I know you're asking "What, no zombies?" and the answer to that question is that this was decades ago when zombies weren't as hot as they are now. Okay, now that I'm all grown up, I'm much better about going outside and hitting the trail. I don't even mind ending up drenched in sweat. Yup, I said it. An odd quirk is that I love being outdoors for my walks while the thought of a rainy day workout on a treadmill is simply dreadful. As a man, I'm very visual - and this extends to my exercise: I don't want to be on a treadmill staring at the same wall. My usual haunt is a section of the Braes Bayou hike-and-bike trail but I do like to mix it up and visit this trail. Memorial Park gets a lot of love, the Rice running trail has its fans, but I prefer Hermann Park since it is more central and has more stuff in it.* Park for free near the Hermann Park Conservancy building (next to the golf course: 2 hour time limit), then up to the Marvin Taylor exercise trail, through the underground pedestrian tunnel to the Bill Coats bridge, cross the bayou to the east side, over the Cambridge bridge, then rejoin the crushed granite path to arrive back at the parking lot. A very nice 3-mile loop. You can make it longer or shorter as you see fit. And, I sometimes throw in a jaunt through the Japanese Garden, when the spirit moves me. After reading my path, you can tell that there is a lot of stuff that gets seen along the way: golfers, the zoo entrance, Miller Outdoor theater, the reconstruction work at the Houston Garden Center and pagoda, the bayou, various botanical stands, and some bridges. It makes the time fly but it also helps me center my thoughts while getting some cardio. All in all a good outcome for someone who was fearful that Mother Nature would be Mommie Dearest. If you see me on the trail, feel free to say "hi" - I may even give you a sweaty hug. But, don't say I didn't warn you. *If you need a pee break, there is a restroom by the golf course (near the path shortcut), several at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, and one just inside the Japanese Garden. You may laugh but these are important things - unless you're wearing your Depends undergarments. read more

Since I'm living in the medical center, and I am in walking distance to Hermann Park, this has become my go to running trail. I used to really hate running outside, but somehow I'm becoming more and more inclined to it. I love that I can choose to half the trail if I don't want to run the 3 miles that I'm pretty sure it goes. Since I've just picked up running a few months ago, I'm still trying to get in shape. When compared to the Rice trail, I like this one because it has fewer people. In the mornings (8:30 am on the weekends), it's not crowded. Rice tends to get pretty crowded at all times of the day. Sure, there is less tree coverage here, but I kind of like running and finding the shade. It kind of sets goals -- must get to the shade before I walk -- which keeps it interesting for me. read more

Love taking a break and doing a quick run at Hermann Park. I usually make my run during the week and never have difficulties with parking. There's several parking lots scattered across the park, the only caveat is that the parking lot has a two hour max (8am-5pm). I've came twice on the weekends and regret it everytime I do :( It's just too much trouble to find parking and it's extremely crowded. Asides from the weekends, I never really have any problems. There's also a public restroom shindig, however, haven't seen any water fountains. If you see me running, say what up :) read more

Hermann Park Trail - Parks Near Me - Houston, Texas

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This is my new local favorite! Has just about everything I need like a golf course & driving range, 2mile & 1 mile trail, and plenty of exercise equipment! There are shade trees everywhere & and shower for after your run. Its close to the zoo, the medical district and all of the colleges. I attend TSU so its really close. The Mosaic is in walking distance and more condos/apartments are on the way. read more

Great running trail. I really like the variety of scenery at Hermann Park, you will run past the golf course, fountains, lake, zoo, wooded areas, across bridges, through underpasses, along the bayou... I have seen lots of wildlife here too, including a beaver and a turtle in the middle of the trail! The trails are never to crowded either which is nice. Plenty of parking at Hermann Park/Zoo. read more

Now that I'm all health conscious and stuff, I more cognizant of where I go to walk - for safety and sanity. The Hermann Park Trail, also known as the Hermann Park Conservancy, is a really nice and varied trail. There are so many options and so much scenery that you'll never get bored. There seems to always seems to be someone here, either walking, running, bike riding, playing golf, and checking out the sites. It is surrounded by the Centennial and Japanese Gardens, the zoo, the train, the pedal boots, Miller Outdoor Theater, the Urban Forest, the reflection pool, and many other amenities. They also have a B-Cycle station. The greatest bonus is going on an evening when there's a show at the theater. After walking, I usually pop up on the hill and enjoy the show. My personal cons: Some of the pathways are narrow, which leaves the potential to get run over by discourteous runners and bike riders (make some noise already). It's lighted at night; I don't think it's great lighting, but I'm scary, so check it out for yourself. read more

I love this place! It has plenty of space to do everything you want. You can bike ride, walk, jogging, fly kites, bbq, and even set up a hammock! I love going out there with my daughter. They sometimes have food trucks available read more

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Great trail to jog with fresh air! or just a place to walk and talk with friends or family. A lot of restaurants and museums near by. This place is peaceful and nature is beautiful. read more

Hermann Park is the "central park" of Houston and it is an awesome park! This is a great place to come to get the ol' ticker beating and there are a ton of people that are like minded in that realm. Even late in the evening, people are down here working out and running around the park. The running path around the golf course is about 2.5 miles long so one lap around is a decent workout. I bring the pups here for long walks 2-3 times a week and it's a great workout for us all! The park is also jam packed with other things to do than play golf or work out. The Houston Zoo is located on these same premises and the Zoo really works for conservation measures more than amusement. So no guilty feelings because most of the animals need a conservation area to live and not able to survive in the wild. And this zoo is a pretty decent size and of a great variety. Then the grounds themselves are wonderfully mastered and put together that you could easily spend 2 days here. But if you're quick you can get through it all in 1 day. Then there is the Miller Outdoor Theater which hosts a variety of free events. And these shows are not some low budget performance my friends. NOOO! The performances are high quality and I'm surprised the place doesn't get more packed. Then there is a Japanese garden, Rose garden, sculpture garden, food garden, a mall, a reflection pool, a kids playground, fishing and I better stop there because this review won't end! Haha but really the park has just about something for everyone. Overall, I'm sooooo glad to be living walking distance to this park because I use it for awesome workouts for me and my pups! read more

We're fans! We decided to take an afternoon walk through Hermann Park after three years of living only six minutes away. It was serene, well-guided, and with plenty of options if one were tired of walking. Next time, we visit, we hope to go pedal boating and maybe even stop at the cafe,but today was just a lovely Sunday date in the park :) read more

I love this new path. Since it's pretty new, it's not heavily used. You can find yourself king of the road! I've taken my bike on here a few times and other times just jogging. Once they are complete, I can take this path all the way from my house. I like how the path is wide and very smoothly paved. Lots of jogging trails, not as many road bike trails. read more

This is my 2nd "secret" place to go when I'm feeling a little stressed, or want to get a good work out in. Everything about Hermann screams serene, calm, and stress-free. Women with children, single men and women, elderly couples, teenagers and even athletic stars come here for a good run/jog/walk. I swear I've seen a couple of Houston Texans rookies throwing the ball around. I feel like rain clouds and thunder avoid Hermann Park because its too pure, its never been anything but sunny. Now I'm sure it has its secrets, but I've never felt anything but comfortable, and I usually go with my boyfriend, but run/walk by myself. The Miller Outdoor Theatre is right next door and it has a huge hill that is great for leg exercises. After 5 the park is filled with men and women exercising, or running along the trail, but I've never felt crowded. The trail itself is pretty wide, enough for 5-6 people side by side, and plenty of parking. read more

Herman Park is a wonderful place to take a stroll, feeds the ducks or just rest during a hot day. We also saw a small train that you can take to ride around the park which I believe was $8. read more

My favorite place for a run in Houston! Compared to Memorial Park, there is much more interesting scenery you can pass through here at Hermann Park. The loop around the golf course is nice with all the large trees overhead, and is about 2 miles around. There's not nearly as much foot traffic around the golf course trail compared to Rice or Memorial. If you want a lengthier or more populated run, you can follow the trail towards Rice. Depending on what route you take, you can go past the Reflecting pool which is just gorgeous on a nice morning (or you can get a nice lungful of all the delightful zoo smells if you take the other route, haha). This also goes past a somewhat sketchy area before crossing the street to Rice, so ladies be vigilant! Looping the entirety of Hermann Park and Rice trail, it is about 6 mi. Happy running! read more

lots of parking scattered around the course, several routes you can run, depending on the distance you desire. It's really nice to run early in the morning cause you can hear some of the animals at the zoo waking up as you pass by. Just watch out, twice I have had some animal or really lame zoo personnel chuck some HUGE animal excrement over the fence, and it lands everytime, right on the curb. Hahahaha, let's hope that's an animal throwing his poop and not a person...it sounds like monkeys. So if you don't mind ducking and watching out for poop, it's a nice wide trail, never really crowded. It runs along the medical center, zoo, and golf course. It's a really nice run. read more